France, Uncorked: The Rhone, The Seine & Bordeaux 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, art, and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable journey. From the vibrant city of Marseille to the artistic legacy of Arles, and the medieval charm of Avignon, each day offers a new adventure. Sail along the Rhône and Saône rivers, exploring picturesque villages and world-renowned vineyards. Discover the historic sites of Normandy, the architectural wonders of Paris, and the exquisite wine regions of Bordeaux. With luxurious accommodations aboard your Suite Ship® and a variety of guided tours and activities, this tour promises an immersive experience of France's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Indulge in the finest wines, savor traditional French cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this enchanting country. Join us for a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of France.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Cruise ship
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Map
Attractions
Pont du Gard
Cleres Zoological Park
Palais des Papes
Château Gaillard
Louvre Museum
Fondation Monet in Giverny
National Opera of Bordeaux
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Parc Mauresque
Eiffel Tower
Arles Amphitheatre
Palais Garnier
Château de Grignan
Botanical Garden
Queen's House
Place Bellecour
Évreux Cathedral
Château Peixotto
Arbre de la Liberté
Biotropica, animal gardensDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Marseille to Arles
- Marseille
- Arles - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to the enchanting land of France! Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Marseille before boarding your luxurious Suite Ship® in Arles. Settle in and enjoy a delightful dinner as you prepare for the adventures ahead. Overnight docking in Arles ensures a restful night before the excitement of the tour unfolds.
Day 2 – Day 2: Arles - A Brush with Genius
- Arles
- Avignon
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- L'espace Van Gogh
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Immerse yourself in the artistic charm of Arles. Start your day with a power walk or attend a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh. Explore the Roman Amphitheater on a guided walking tour, then unwind with a glass of wine at Le Café Van Gogh. As the sun sets, sail towards Avignon, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 3 – Day 3: Avignon - The City of Popes
- Avignon
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- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
- Château de Grignan
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Discover the fortress city of Avignon with its majestic ramparts. Visit the Palace of the Popes and explore optional excursions to the Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard or the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Capture the essence of Avignon's art and culture before enjoying live entertainment on board.
Day 4 – Day 4: Viviers - World History in a Charming Village
Day 4: Viviers - World History in a Charming Village
- Orange Cathedral
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Sail leisurely to the quaint village of Viviers. Choose between a hike to the hilltop Cathedral or a guided walking tour of the village's historical sites. Discover the blend of Christian, Roman, and medieval influences before continuing your journey with an evening cruise to Tain l'Hermitage.
Day 5 – Day 5: Tournon - Castle Views and Vineyards
- Lyon
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- Train de l'Ardèche
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Explore the medieval town of Tournon with a guided walking tour or a morning hike. Discover the 16th-century castle and Roman ruins nestled between the Rhône River and granite slopes. In the afternoon, cruise to Lyon, where you'll dock overnight, ready for the next day's adventures.
Day 6 – Day 6: Lyon - La Vie En Rose
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Discover Lyon's rich history and culture with a guided tour from Fourvière Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Explore the Old Town's medieval alleyways and the vibrant Place des Terreaux. Spend your afternoon biking through the city's scenic squares and along the riverbanks before sailing to Tournus.
Day 7 – Day 7: Tournus - Wine and Cheese on the Saône
Day 7: Tournus - Wine and Cheese on the Saône
Venture into the Mâconnais region to explore its renowned Chardonnay vineyards and partake in a wine-tasting session at a medieval castle. Spend the afternoon cruising along the Saône River, savoring a cheese tasting on board. Enjoy live entertainment as you dock overnight in Chalon-sur-Saône.
Day 8 – Day 8: Beaune to Paris
- Beaune
- Dijon
- Paris
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Explore the architectural marvel of the Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, home to Van der Weyden's masterpiece. In the afternoon, travel by high-speed train from Dijon to Paris, where you'll board your Suite Ship® for an evening cruise to Vernon.
Day 9 – Day 9: Vernon to Les Andelys
- Vernon
- Les Andelys
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- Château Gaillard
- Fondation Monet in Giverny
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Explore the artistic legacy of Vernon with a visit to Monet's House or Bizy Castle. Enjoy a traditional French luncheon on board as you sail to Les Andelys. In the afternoon, choose between a hike to Château Gaillard or a walking tour of this picturesque town on the Seine.
Day 10 – Day 10: Caudebec - Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine
Day 10: Caudebec - Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine
Delve into the history of Normandy with a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route. Discover the medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys that line the Seine. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur. Dock overnight in Caudebec.
Day 11 – Day 11: Normandy - Heroic Bravery on the Beaches
- Rouen
- More
- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Pay homage to the heroes of WWII with a guided tour of Normandy's landing beaches, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian sites or delve into Normandy's agricultural traditions. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Rouen.
Day 12 – Day 12: Rouen - The Cathedral and Joan of Arc
- Rouen
- More
- Cleres Zoological Park
- Évreux Cathedral
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Explore Rouen, the city of Joan of Arc, with a guided walking tour of its medieval quarter. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the 16th-century Astronomical Clock. Alternatively, discover the city's hidden gems on a guided bike tour. Cruise to Conflans for your next adventure.
Day 13 – Day 13: Conflans - In the Footsteps of Van Gogh
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Follow the artistic legacy of Van Gogh with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte. Consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles before cruising to Paris, the City of Light.
Day 14 – Day 14: Paris - Cafés, Cathedrals, and Canvases
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
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Experience the magic of Paris with a guided walk through its historic heart, featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre Museum, and Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, embark on a city tour to see iconic sites like the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées. Spend your evening exploring Paris at your leisure.
Day 15 – Day 15: Paris to Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
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Travel to Bordeaux to embark on your Suite Ship® for a captivating cruise along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you prepare for the next leg of your journey. Overnight docking in Bordeaux ensures a comfortable stay.
Day 16 – Day 16: Cadillac-sur-Garonne - On the Steps of Montesquieu
Day 16: Cadillac-sur-Garonne - On the Steps of Montesquieu
- Château Peixotto
- More
Visit the birthplace of Montesquieu at Château de la Brède, a fortress-style castle with a rich history. Alternatively, enjoy a wine tasting at a local château, savoring the sweet notes of Sauternes. Return to your ship for an evening of live entertainment.
Day 17 – Day 17: Cussac Fort Médoc - Bikes, Vines, and Wines
Day 17: Cussac Fort Médoc - Bikes, Vines, and Wines
Explore Bordeaux's wine region with a guided E-bike tour through picturesque vineyards. Alternatively, visit a historic château in the Médoc area for a wine tasting. Enjoy a brief evening sail to Blaye, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 18 – Day 18: Blaye - Fine Art and Bubbly
Day 18: Blaye - Fine Art and Bubbly
- National Opera of Bordeaux
- More
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Citadel of Blaye, followed by a scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche. Alternatively, explore Blaye's art scene with a gallery visit and wine tasting. Sail to Bourg for an evening of exploration or an optional excursion to learn about Cognac production.
Day 19 – Day 19: Saint-Émilion - The Village Amid the Vineyards
- Saint-Émilion
- Bordeaux
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Explore the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its legendary landscapes and rich history. In the evening, sail back to Bordeaux, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 20 – Day 20: Bordeaux - Sights and Brilliant Lights
- Bordeaux
- More
Discover the heart of Bordeaux with a guided walking tour through its stunning squares and cathedrals. Consider an optional excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for an immersive art and music experience. Enjoy a delightful evening on board your ship.
Day 21 – Day 21: Bordeaux - Seas, Shells, and Sips
- Bordeaux
- More
- Parc Mauresque
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Join your Adventure Host for a scenic bike ride along Bordeaux's river views or take a full-day guided tour to the seaside resort of Arcachon. Discover its architectural treasures and savor local oysters and wine. Return to Bordeaux for an overnight stay.
Day 22 – Day 22: Bordeaux - Departure
- Bordeaux - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey with a final breakfast on board your Suite Ship®. Reflect on the memories made and the beautiful sights experienced throughout this extraordinary multi-day tour of France.
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